Plan Commission approves seasonal Schmit’s Farm produce stand at North Shore Bank lot

The Brookfield Plan Commission voted unanimously on May 11 to approve a temporary use permit allowing Schmit’s Farm to operate a seasonal produce stand in the North Shore Bank parking lot at 15830 W. Capitol Drive.

Zoning Administrator Justin Drew summarized the application, saying the operator, Vincent Schmit, proposes to use six parking stalls in the southeast portion of the lot for two produce trailers and a small tent. The stand is scheduled to operate daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. between July 10 and Oct. 25. Schmit also proposed a temporary sanitary facility near the dumpster enclosure for staff use.

Staff concluded the site has adequate parking and access for the small-scale operation and noted the City has previously approved similar temporary produce and garden stands. The Brookfield Fire Department requested conditions to ensure emergency vehicles have unimpeded access to the property and along adjacent roadways, that building doorways and means of egress remain unobstructed, and that fire hydrants be plainly visible and accessible. The police department recommended approval based on adequate parking, sanitary facilities, and safe vehicular access.

Alderman Gary Mahkorn asked whether there had been complaints at the stand’s prior location; Zoning Administrator Drew said staff found no complaints in City records. Commissioner Scott Thomas inquired about signage; Drew said temporary signage is anticipated but an application had not been submitted.

Commissioner Austin Moore moved to approve the temporary use permit, and Alderman Gary Mahkorn seconded. The motion carried 7-0.

The permit will be issued with the conditions requested by the Fire Department and as recommended by staff. The decision may be implemented administratively once the permit conditions and any required ancillary approvals are satisfied.